Spring Boosters for COVID-19: What you need to know
The NHS is kicking off its spring COVID-19 booster vaccination programme.
Around five million people in total will be eligible, including over 75s, those with a weakened immune system and older adult care home residents.
Those living in care homes will be prioritised and begin to receive vaccinations from Monday (3 April) as roving NHS teams visit homes to offer protection.
Others eligible will be able to book in on the National Booking Service or NHS App from Wednesday 5th April, for the first appointments available week commencing Monday 17th April.
Further details are available here and below.
Who is eligible for a spring booster?
People aged 75 years and over, those in care homes, and those aged 5 years and over with a weakened immune system are being offered a spring booster of COVID-19 vaccine.
There are very few people who should not have this booster. If you have had a severe reaction to a previous dose of the vaccine you should discuss this with your doctor.
When can I have my booster?
You should be offered an appointment between April and June, with those at highest risk being called in first.
You will be invited to have your booster around 6 months from your last dose but you can have it from 3 months.
If you are turning 75 years of age between April and June, you will be called for vaccination during the campaign; you do not have to wait for your birthday.
Which vaccines will be used this spring?
You will be given a booster dose of a vaccine made by Pfizer, Moderna or Sanofi and approved in the UK.
For a very small number of people another vaccine product may be advised by your doctor.
Catching up with missed doses
If you have not yet had either of your first 2 doses of the vaccine (or a third dose for those with a weakened immune system) you should have them as soon as possible.
If you are eligible and you have missed an earlier booster, you should have a dose this spring to catch up. You will not need another dose during the summer.
If you are unwell on the day of your booster vaccination
If you are unwell, wait until you have recovered to have your vaccine. You should not attend an appointment if you have a fever or think you might be infectious to others.
Further information
The NHS have produced a range of COVID-19 guides for more information:
